Martz says Bears can go to shorter drops

That way Cutler can get off quicker throws to try to avoid rush

A day after Jay Cutler said he wanted plays designed to get the ball out of his hand quicker, offensive coordinator Mike Martz acknowledged that is part of the plan to keep their quarterback upright.

"Jay's right," Martz said Thursday. "We've addressed this issue. And until we get it stabilized a little bit in that offensive line … same thing happened to us last year if you'll remember. We have to make sure we're giving him a better chance with some of these quicker throws."

Even though seven-step drops are a major staple of Martz's scheme, he says adjustments can be made to accommodate shorter drops.

"We just change gears and go in that direction. That's not hard."

Martz said ultimately the issues have come down to having to juggle offensive linemen. The team will use its fifth combination in six games Sunday night against the Vikings at Soldier Field.

"We have guys moving all over the place. … Now things are starting to settle down a little bit and stabilize. And that's what we need. …

"There was nothing wrong with the (season) opener, you liked that? We do have to make some adjustments. We'll do that and I know that."

Big start:Lance Louis is slated to make his first start at right tackle Sunday. Chris Spencer, who suffered a broken right hand two weeks ago against the Panthers, is expected to start at right guard wearing a cast. Tackle Frank Omiyale is out of the starting lineup after his poor performance Monday night.

Louis, who has come off the bench to play right tackle this season, last started at that position in 2008 as a senior at San Diego State.

Back on the field:Earl Bennett participated in practice Thursday for the first time since suffering a chest injury in Week 2 at New Orleans. But it is doubtful he will be ready for the Vikings.

"He's a tough player, helps the running game and the passing game," Cutler said. "So without him, obviously we took a step back."

Technical difficulties: One issue that is getting more complaints than the Soldier Field turf is the communication device in Cutler's headset. The breakdown in getting plays relayed from Martz to Cutler continues to be problematic.

"We've always had that problem here for some reason," Martz said. "... Like I had the defense on my headset during the game when they were talking and I was trying to call plays."

Injury report: Defensive end Julius Peppers missed Thursday's practice with a sprained MCL in his left knee, but coach Lovie Smith hopes he will return Friday. Cornerback Charles Tillman (hip) and defensive tackle Matt Toeaina (knee) also were sidelined. Toeaina is not expected to be back for Sunday's game. Defensive end Corey Wootton, who suffered a broken hand last week, fully participated in practice.